Italian 800 Fine Silver Hollowware Piece by Miracoli
Hollowware (Specific form unidentified from hallmark photo) · A. Miracoli & Figli (Romeo Miracoli). Founded in 1912 in Milan, Italy. They are a highly prestigious silversmithing firm known for high-quality hand-chased silver and luxury commissions.
Pattern: Custom or Studio Line; Miracoli production is typically hand-finished rather than standardized flatware patterns.
Type
Hollowware (Specific form unidentified from hallmark photo)
Maker
A. Miracoli & Figli (Romeo Miracoli). Founded in 1912 in Milan, Italy. They are a highly prestigious silversmithing firm known for high-quality hand-chased silver and luxury commissions.
Material
800 Fine Silver (80% silver, 20% copper alloy). This was the standard silver purity for Italian and Continental silver throughout the 20th century.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter of base 5-10cm. Weight cannot be determined but Italian 800 silver hollowware typically has a substantial feel compared to plated items.
Description
This hallmark belongs to a piece of Italian heritage silver from one of Milan's most storied houses. Miracoli silver is characterized by a balance of classical proportions and exceptional surface finishing, favored by the Italian elite.
Key Features
The '1 MI' mark is the primary identifier. Being 'number 1' in Milan is a mark of prestige, indicating the firm's historical seniority and prominence in the region.
Material & Composition
800 Fine Silver (80% silver, 20% copper alloy). This was the standard silver purity for Italian and Continental silver throughout the 20th century.
Finish & Decoration
The image shows a concentric engine-turned or lathed finish on the interior base. Likely features hand-chased or repoussé exterior decoration consistent with Miracoli's boutique craftsmanship.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Includes the '800' fineness mark in an oval. To the left is the Italian Fascist-era or post-1934 'lozenge' mark containing '1 MI', identifying it as the first silversmith registered in Milan (MI).
Construction Details
Hand-raised or spun from silver sheet. The circular tool marks on the interior suggest the piece was finished on a lathe or spun during construction.
Functional Features
Standard hollowware base; likely part of a bowl, vase, or goblet. The flat interior suggests a stable reservoir for liquids or contents.
Handle & Grip Details
Not visible; however, Miracoli pieces often feature cast silver handles or finials attached with high-grade silver solder.
Craftsmanship Details
Superior craftsmanship. The clean strike of the hallmark into the silver indicates the alloy was properly annealed. Miracoli is known for hand-detailing that exceeds mass-market standards.
Authentication Indicators
The punch depth of the '1 MI' and '800' marks is consistent with steel die-striking. The concentric finishing marks are consistent with period workshop techniques.
Origin & Manufacturing
Milan, Italy. Manufactured in the Miracoli workshop, which maintained traditional hand-crafting methods throughout the industrial era.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century Italian. The specific '1 MI' mark was utilized after the 1934 decree regulating silversmith marks in Italy.
Age Estimate
Circa 1934-1968. The mark '1 MI' in a lozenge without a star indicates production prior to the 1968 hallmark revision.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Made in Italy' transition where traditional silversmithing met modern luxury branding. 800 silver is culturally tied to the Italian domestic 'dolce vita' lifestyle.
Condition Notes
Good based on mark visibility. There is visible surface tarnish and light 'firestain' or micro-scratching from previous cleaning. No deep gouges visible in the provided area.
Value Estimate
$200 - $1,500 USD depending on the object's form and weight. The Miracoli name adds a 20-40% premium over generic 800 silver scrap value.
Care & Maintenance
Hand polish with a high-quality silver cream and soft cotton cloth. Avoid chemical dips which can strip the intentional oxidation in recessed decorative areas.
Similar Pieces
Works by Buccellati or Faraone. While Buccellati is more internationally famous, Miracoli is regarded with equal respect for technical execution within Italy.
Interesting Facts
A. Miracoli & Figli remains one of the oldest and most respected silversmiths in Milan, still operating near the Duomo, and has served various royal houses and international celebrities.